Dental Exams

A team of dentists looking at an x-ray image

Good oral health is an essential component of living a healthy life, physically and emotionally. Neglecting your teeth and gums can lead to several oral problems, including cavities, gum disease, periodontitis.

Besides practicing good dental hygiene, like regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, periodically visiting a dental professional for a dental exam is a crucial aspect of maintaining excellent dental health. 

Why Do I Need a Dental Exam?

Scheduling a routine dental exam is important for several reasons. It is a preventive dental care measure that helps achieve and sustain good oral health in the long term. A dental exam helps detect oral health problems early on, allowing your dentist to provide a more proactive solution before they transform into a more significant issue. 

Dental health problems are some of the most painful but also largely preventable. If overlooked for a long time, they may put you at the risk of severe health complications like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and oral cancer. 

Therefore, if you want to protect yourself from costly dental procedures and health issues in the long haul, it is in your best interest to not put off dental exams and get a routine dental check-up. 

What to Expect in a Dental Exam

A dental exam typically begins with a thorough cleaning by the dentist or hygienist. You may get instructions on how to take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing with the proper techniques.

The dentist will then inspect your teeth, gums, throat, and surrounding areas using special tools and instruments for any signs of disease like gum disease, tooth decay, or oral cancer. To evaluate the overall health of your teeth, they may take a dental X-ray of your mouth to detect any suspected damage or disease that may not be noticeable with the naked eye.

Difference Between Dental Cleaning and Dental Exam

While some people may combine them into one appointment, dental cleanings and dental exams are two distinct procedures. A dental cleaning usually entails your dentist scraping off plaque or tartar in between your teeth and around the gums. They will then polish your teeth using an abrasive paste and floss and rinse your mouth to remove any leftover debris. Lastly, the dentist or hygienist will carry out a fluoride treatment, which helps prevent cavities and build strong teeth. 

A dental exam is a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth and mouth’s overall health to identify any abnormalities and prevent potential problems from aggravating. These commonly include: 

  • Gum disease
  • Cavities
  • Tooth decay
  • Bone loss
  • Bite or jaw problems

How Long Do Dental Exams Last?

Lasting slightly longer than dental cleanings, the duration of dental exams depends upon the condition of the person’s mouth. However, most dental exams typically last about 30-45 minutes. 

How Much Does a Dental Exam Cost?

One of the most pertinent questions is how much a dental exam costs. A dental exam can cost anywhere between $100-200, including cleaning, without insurance. If you need X-rays, the cost will add up, and you are likely to pay above $300. 

Grove City Smiles is an in-network provider which provides comfortable, compassionate, and tailed treatment for everyone at an affordable rate. You may click here to learn more about our compassionate, dedicated team of doctors. 

Poor dental health can have a significant impact on your quality of life. Even if you brush regularly and feel your teeth are in the best condition, a closer inspection by a professional dentist may prove otherwise. Accordingly, it is recommended that you schedule routine dental examinations at least twice a year for a healthy mouth and look your best with a beautiful smile.

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